Which of the following is a key safety factor when operating a mobile crane?

Ground stability is a crucial safety factor when operating a mobile crane because the crane's operational safety and performance significantly depend on the ground conditions at the setup location. A stable and level surface is essential to prevent tipping or sliding during lifting operations. If the ground is unstable or uneven, this can lead to accidents, such as crane overturning or losing its load, which can have serious consequences for the operator, crew, and surrounding environment.

Monitoring weather patterns is important for planning the lift, but ensuring that the ground can adequately support the crane is foundational to maintaining a safe working environment. While checking the inventory of crane parts and understanding crane depreciation are valuable tasks, they do not directly impact the immediate operational safety of lifting. The top priority must always lie in the stability and suitability of the ground to provide the necessary support for safe crane operations.